The Barneveld Noord Train Station Has a Simple but Strong Presence

The new Barneveld Noord train station replaces what you typically find through more sparsely populated areas. What was little more than a short platform and a shelter, this transit stop has adopted a much more assertive image without enormous architectural investment.

The beauty of the NL Architects' project is in the minimalist approach to stacking shipping containers to form a small indoor space and landmark. With one massive cargo unit tipped onto its end, the contemporary depot erects a monumental clock tower, topped with an endearing chicken weather vane.

More structures like the Utrecht Barneveld Noord train station will crop up in the Netherlands, affording a safer place for passengers to wait. The open-concept ground floor of the eco edifices will even house cafes and bike repair shops to bring more life to peaceful platforms.